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Virginia Unemployment Weekly Benefit Calculator

Virginia provides weekly unemployment benefits based on the wages you earned in your two highest‑earning quarters. Use the simple formula below to see how much you may receive each week and for how long.

Reviewed 2026-08-27 · Estimates only — not legal or financial advice.

Before taxes.
Before taxes.
The law behind this calculator: Virginia Employment Commission — unemployment insurance — Va. Code § 60.2-602; Virginia Employment Commission.

How Virginia calculates it

  • Add the wages from your two highest‑earning quarters together
  • Divide the combined total by 50
  • If the result is less than $60, the weekly benefit is set to $60
  • If the result exceeds the applicable maximum, the weekly benefit is capped at that maximum
  • The $430 maximum applies to claims filed on or after January 4, 2026
  • The $478 maximum applies to claims filed on or after July 5, 2026 and requires at least $23,900 across the two quarters

Worked example

If your two highest‑earning quarters were $12,000 and $10,500, the calculation is ($12,000 + $10,500) ÷ 50 = $450, giving a weekly benefit of $450 for up to 26 weeks, which could total $11,700 if you receive the full amount.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum weekly unemployment benefit in Virginia?

The weekly benefit cannot be less than $60.

What is the maximum weekly benefit and when does it apply?

The maximum is $430 for claims filed on or after January 4, 2026, and $478 for claims filed on or after July 5, 2026.

How many weeks can I receive benefits?

Benefits are payable for up to 26 weeks.

How do I calculate my weekly benefit amount?

Add the wages from your two highest‑earning quarters, divide the sum by 50, then apply the $60 minimum and the applicable maximum.

What wages are needed to qualify for the $478 maximum?

You must have earned at least $23,900 across your two highest quarters.

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